Sangamon County, Illinois - The whole text, 1912 (part 10 of 46)

COULTER, Earl C., was born in New Berlin, 1l., January 31, 1876, and is a son of Frank G. and Mary ©. Coulter. He is a grandson of Francis Taylor, who was one of the pioneers, having come from Bridgeport, Conn., to Sangamon County in the autumn of 1850. i

Mr. Coulter spent his boyhood days on his father's farm and received his education in the public school of New Berlin, graduating from the High School in the class of 1893. After finishing school he remained on the home farm until he reached his majority, when he rented some land west of New Berlin and started life on his own account, with a determination to make the best of his opportunities, and with several years of valuable farming experience to his credit.

In 1901 Mr. Coulter purchased eighty acres of land situated in Section 21 of his native township and built thereon a home, where he still resides. His first house was destroyed by fire in the winter 1906 but in 1907 he erected a very comfortable and handsome residence to replace the old one. He has excellent buildings on his farm for sheltering his stock and also his farming implements. He has always been a great lover of good horses, and has given considerable attention to the breeding of mules. In 1910, in partnership with Charles Shuff, he purchased a celebrated jack known as "High Tide," standing 141%, hands high and black in color, which at the age of two years weighed 1,050 pounds, and was the winner of the highest award in the two-year-old class and also winner of the award in the grand champion exhibit for all ages at the Illinois State Fair in 1910. In the same year Mr. Coulter and Mr. Shuff also purchased a pure bred Percheron stallion, weighing 1,800 pounds, known as "Lee." Both the jack and the stallion are kept on Mr. Coulter's farm, which is known as "Clover Leaf Farm."

Mr. Coulter has always been devoted to farm life and has always taken great pride in keeping high grade stock. He is an excellent judge in this line and is a leader in stock-raising in his part of the county. He has brought his eighty acre farm to a high state of cultivation and is known as a hustling, energetic young man, whose success is the result of untiring perseverance and good judgment. He takes a deep interest in every public enterprise, and is always to be found on the side of right. Reared by a devout Christian mother, he united with the Presbyterian Church early in life, and has for years been a supporter of the church and of the moral uplift of the- community.

In politics Mr. Coulter is a stanch Republican and he was one of the Yates delegates to the State Convention made famous by the deadlock which lasted twenty-five days. He is President of the Sangamon County Farmers Institute and is a gentleman in the highest sense of the term and a man of earnest purpose and endeavor.

COUNCIL, Alvin, belongs to one of the oldest families of Sangamon County, his grandfather having come to Fancy Creek Township as early as 1819. He was born on the Council homestead, on the Springfield and Peoria turnpike, near his present home, May 19, 1873, son of George Washington and Olivia Laura (Miller) Council, The father was born August 6, 1834, and the mother, a native of West Liberty, Ohio, was born February 17, 1851, and they were married March 24, 1868, locating on the farm where his parents settled in 1819. George W. Council enlisted October 25, 1862, in Company B, One Hundred Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, for three years, and was transferred to Company G, First New Orleans Volunteer Infantry, in which he was Second Lieutenant, in which capacity he served nearly a year after the close of the war, then was honorably discharged.

Hardy Council, father of George W., was born near Tarboro, N. C., September 20, 1793, was taken by his parents to Tennessee, thence to Barren County, Ky., and subsequently to White County, Ill. He was there married in 1816 to Jane Hanna, who was born in Kentucky, February 25, 1795, and the next year they came to Sangamon County on horseback, arriving there in August, 1819, and locating in what became Fancy Creek Township. Mrs. Council brought with her, on her horse, a sack of wheat and many household implements, and Mr. Council carried what farming tools and implements he was able to bring. He built a rough cabin and, unable to obtain a plow, took a grubbing hoe, or old-fashioned mattock, and dug up about an acre and a half of land, on which he sowed the wheat his wife had carried, and raised a good crop. When the land was surveyed there was a line between his cabin and the ground where he had raised his crop, and he was able to enter but one piece, choosing the one containing his habitation. He and Robert McClelland, who came at the same time as himself, cut a large amount of grass, which they stacked for their horses and cattle, but not being aware of the danger from prairie fires, were unprepared for such a contingency, and before they knew it their hay was all burned. They fed their stock by cutting down elm trees so they could eat the buds. He and his wife had Seven sons born on the farm, of whom five reached maturity: John H., Wesley, William F., Robert and George W. Hardy Council and his wife both died in Sangamon County, he July 26, 1873, and she March 30, 1863.

Alvin Council received his education in the public schools and early chose the occupation of farming, in which he has always met with gratifying success. He became associated with his father in farming and stock raising. He has lived twelve years on his present place, which contains two hundred ninety acres of good farm land, and although for the past five years he has been unable to take an active part in its cultivation, still lives there and superintends the work. He belongs to the Methodist Church and is a Republican in political belief. He is a progressive and enterprising citizen and interested in every movement for the general welfare and prosperity. He served some six years as School Director, but otherwise has held no public office. He is one of the best known men in the community, where he has a large number ot friends.

Rita Kate Barber, also a native of Fancy Creek Township, born April 12, 1877, daughter of Andrew Jackson and Margaret Elizabeth (Lake) Barber, her father a native of Virginia, born in Fauquier County, October 5, 1836, and her mother born in Fancy Creek Township, December 15, 1843. The grandfather of Mrs. Council, Bayliss G. Lake, was born in Fauquier County, Va., November 1, 1795, and was married in Frederick County, October 5, 1820, to Eliza Glascock, born in Loudoun County, October 31, 1800. They moved to Clark County, Ohio, where three children were born, Bayliss G. Lake and John McBeth started April 3, 1827, on foot, to see Illinois, and arrived at Springfield, April 14th. After spending a month with some friends in Sangamon County, Mr. Lake made an engagement to help herd some cattle and drive them east, and arrived home in June of that year with more money than he had when he started. He returned to Sangamon County with his family, taking a wagon drawn by four horses, and arriving in the fall of 1827, in what became Fancy Creek Township, where he and his wife had six more children.

COUNCIL, Emerson, is one of the younger farmers who have won success in Sangamon County, and owns the Council family homestead in Section 12, Fancy Creek Township, which place was secured in 1819 by his grandfather, Hardy Council, one of the earliest settlers of the locality. Emerson Council was born on this farm July 27, 1885, son of George Washington and Olivia Laura (Miller) Council, the father born on the family homestead, August 6, 1834, and the mother born at West Liberty, Ohio, February 17, 1851. They were married March 24, 1868, and located on his father's farm. George W. Council enlisted October 25, 1862, in Company B, One Hundred Thirtieth Illinois Infantry, for three years, and was transferred to Company G, First New Orleans Volunteer Infantry, in which he was Second Lieutenant, and served in that capacity until nearly one year after the close of the war, being then honorably discharged. He and his wife became parents of the following children: Clifford, Ida E., Alvin, - born May 19, 1873, a sketch of whom appears in this work; Hmerson. The family was established in Sangamon County by Hardy Council, who was a native of North Carolina, and prominent among the first farmers of Sangamon County, a full account of whom appears in connection with the sketch of Alvin Council in this work.

In boyhood Hmerson Council attended public school and helped with the work on the home farm. He has never cared for other occupa tions than farming and has studied the needs and possibilities of Sangamon County land. He enjoys a quiet, peaceful life and has a comfortable home. Hejs progressive along all lines of agriculture and stock-raising, and is the owner of a desirable farm. He is well known and popular among his neighbors and associates, and is interested in local affairs, although taking no active part in politics. He is a Republican in his views and has been a member of the I. O. O. F. for four years. In religious belief he is a Methodist, being a member of the church at Sherman. He is unmarried.

COX, Thomas, a section foreman for the Chicago & Alton Railroad Company and one of the most faithful employes of that system, is a reliable and well-known resident of Springfield, living on West Mason Street. He was born in Belfast, County Derry, Ireland, November 11, 1859, a son of Thomas and Mary (Lamb) Cox, both natives of Ireland, who lived and died on the family farm in that country. One of their daughters resides in Belfast, Ireland, and she and Thomas are all who now survive.

After a common school education received in Ireland, Thomas Cox was brought by an aunt to America, when only eleven years old. They landed in Boston, whence they went to Warren County, N. J., where the lad found work with a farmer. Later he entered the employ of the Delaware & Lackawanna Railroad, in New Jersey, but in 1890 came to Illinois, settling in Chicago, where he remained for a time. He then worked in the stone quarries near Joliet, and about 1895 he entered the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railroad Company, remaining with them for a time. He was then with the Big Four as section foreman at Carbon, Ind., but in 1900 returned to the Chicago & Alton at Springfield, and is now in their employ.

In November, 1888, he was united in marriage, in Springfield, to Miss Mary Fogarty, born near Farmingdale, Ill., a daughter of Irish-born parents, who settled there at an early day. Mr. Fogarty was a farmer for many years, but later worked for the Buffalo & Ohio Railroad Company, continuing in their employ until his death. His widow survives him, making her home in Farmingdale. She and her husband had six sons and five daughters, of whom four survive. Mr. and Mrs. Cox have no children. He is a Democrat and belongs to the Modern Woodmen. He and his wife are Roman Catholics and belong to the St. Agnes parish. Mr. Cox is a solid, responsible man, who has many friends and deserves the prosperity which is his.

CRAIG, John Newton, a well known and successful farmer of Cotton Hill Township, Sangamon County, Ill., is a veteran of the Civil War, having served three years in the Confederate Army. He was a brave and faithful soldier, and (though in the light of subsequent events he feels he should have been enlisted for the other side) did his full duty as he then saw it, and is worthy of credit and honor for the part he played in the struggle. Mr. Craig is a native of Scotland, born August 7, 1836, son of James and Martha (Arbuckle) Craig, both also born in Scotland.*® The parents were farmers and came to America in 1847, landing at Quebec, where the mother died while in quarantine. The father moved farther west and his death occurred at Guelph, Canada, during the same year. They were parents of four children, all of whom survive, namely: Daniel, John N., John D. and Jennie. The Craigs were descended from an old English family, of royal descent, and the grandparents of John N. Craig died in England.

The boyhood of John N. Craig was spent on a farm and he received his early education in the Canadian schools. He afterward attended Tennessee College in Giles County, Tenn., and also studied in night school in Louisville, Ky. He moved from Canada to Michigan, thence to Springfield, Ill., and then to Pulaski, Tenn., and was living at the latter place at the beginning of the Civil War. He enlisted in Company K, First Tennessee, Captain C. Fields, under the command of George Manney, and served from 1861 until 1868, leaving the service after the Battle of Chickamauga. He was wounded at the Battle of Perryville and taken prisoner, but soon afterward exchanged. The important battles in which he participated included: Shiloh, Perryville, Chickamauga, Greenbrier, Cheat Mountain and many skirmishes.

As a young man Mr. Craig learned the trade of cabinet-making, but has spent most of his life in agricultural pursuits. He has always been fond of outdoor life and as a boy liked all kinds of sport. He was married (first) in 1866, in Springfield, Ill., to Jennie Dowling, and they became parents of children as follows: James S. and Flora, both of whom are deceased and are buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

Mr. Craig was married (second) in Springfield, in 1880, by Rev. Hale, to Mary Ann Murphy, born in Ireland, daughter of William and Lettie (Hill) Murphy, both natives of Ireland, the latter of whom died in Illinois. Five children were born to Mr. Craig and his second wife, as follows: William H., born May 7, 1881, married Dora Hyle and they live in Chicago; John Arbuckle and Alexander, twins, born August 17, 1883; Matilda Bess, August 17, 1886, and Jennie Lind, August 12, 1888. All were reared and educated in Sangamon County and all survive. The family are members of the Methodist Church. Mr. Craig is held in high esteem by all and is considered an industrious, useful citizen. He served sixteen years as Justice of the Peace of Cotton Hill Township. He owns eighty-five acres of fertile land where he lives, and carries on general farming. He is honest and upright in all his dealings and interested in the welfare and progress of the community.

rious lines in Sangamon County, Ill., mention should be made of the late James Crawley, who for many years was engaged in agricultural pursuits and in blacksmithing on Sections 1 and 2, Ball Township, and who fought as a Union soldier during the Civil War. Mr. Crawley was born in St. Joseph, Mo., March 20, 1840, a son of Conrad and Elizabeth (McClellan) Crawley, natives of Missouri, where the latter died, the former passing away in Menard County, Ill. Mr. Crawley's grandparents on the paternal side were Missourians and spent their entire lives in their native state, while his Grandfather McClellan came to Sangamon County, and there his death occurred.

James Crawley secured his education in the country schools of Sangamon County, Ill., and his boyhood was spent on the home farm. As a youth he engaged in blacksmithing and lived with his parents, who were Abolitionists. Mr. Crawley was living in Illinois when the Civil War broke out and enlisted in Company I, Seventh Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry, with which organization he served until the close of the war, being mustered out July 9, 1865, at Springfield, at which time he had risen to the rank of Lieutenant. During his army service Mr. Crawley engaged in many desperate battles, including Corinth, Chattanooga, Nashville and Clarksville, and be was twice wounded, once in the arm and once in the head. After returning from the war Mr. Crawley again engaged in blacksmithing and farming, and his widow is now living on the homestead farm of fifty-eight acres situated on Sections 1 and 2 in Ball Township. Mr. Crawley was a Republican in politics, but could never be induced to accept any position of public preferment. His family are members of the Christian Church and, while he was never a member of any religious denomination, he was always charitably inclined and supported the Christian Church to the extent of his financial ability. Mr. Crawley was a popular comrade of A. J. Weber Post, Grand Army of the Republic, at Pawnee, Tl.

Mr. Crawley was married in Sangamon County, Ill., December 7, 1865, to Elizabeth Shoup, who was born in the county June 18, 1840, daughter of Timothy and Mary (Keyes) Shoup, natives of Ohio, who died in Sangamon County, both being buried in Newcomer Cemetery. Mrs. Crawley's grandparents on both sides of her family were natives of Ohio, who came as agriculturists to Sangamon County, I., and there died.

To Mr. and Mrs. Crawley were born three children, as follows: Mary Edna, born September 11, 1866, married J. T. Weston, resides in Springfield, Ill., and has one son, Harry, who married Martha Schafer, of Chicago, by whom he had a child who died in infancy, and they now. reside in St. Louis; John E., born April 14, 1869, married April 27, 1898, Sarah A. Young, born in Sangamon County, January

21, 1879, and they live on the old home place and have two children, Gracie May, born January 25, 1899, and Ernest Leo, born July 14, 1900; and Clara May, born July 9, 1876, married Edward Rohrer, a well-known agriculturist carrying on operations in Sangamon County, and they have three children - Elmer (born August 12, 1894), Leroy (born January 12, 1896), and Irene J. (born April 4, 1899).

CREAMER, Patrick. - Some of the most brilliant men this country has ever had were either born in Ireland or came of Irish parentage. Not only are they successful in a business way, but they dominate politics and make friends. wherever found. Sangamon County, fortunately, has many of these genial, pleasant sons of Erin, and one who has friends all over this part of the state is Patrick Creamer, now living retired in his pleasant home in Illiopolis. Mr. Creamer was born in the western part of Ireland, in 1888, being a son of Michael and Ann (McGarry) Creamer, natives of that country. Neither of his parents came to America, but passed away in Ireland. Of their large family Mr. Creamer is the enly one now living.

Growing up on the family farm in Ireland, Mr. Creamer attended the parish school, but was not at all satisfied with his opportunities, so in 1848 left home, going first to Liverpool, whence he sailed to New York. Arriving in that city he spent a week there, then went south to Philadelphia, where he arrived, February 12, 1849. This continued his home until 1858. During this time he worked along different lines, finally leaving for Chester County, Pa., to farm. Returning to Philadelphia, he remained there a short time, then came west to Elkhart, Logan County, Ill., where he worked on various farms for nine years, but during this time bravely served his adopted country, enlisting in 1862 in the One Hundred and Sixth Illinois Volunteer Infantry, but was discharged on account of illness. Returning to Sangamon County, he resumed his farming. By saving his money he was able to buy land, now owning eighty acres in addition to his home in Iliopolis. This farm he operated until his retirement in 1896, since which time he has taken life more easily.

The marriage of Mr. Creamer occurred in Philadelphia, January 31, 1866, to Mary Mc- Cabe, born in Ireland. Both of her parents came to America, settling first in Logan County, but several years later moving to Sangamon County, where they bought a farm, making it their home until death claimed them. One, child was born to Mr. and Mrs. Creamer, who died in infancy.

The Democratic party has always found a stanch supporter in Mr. Creamer, but he has never cared to run for office although his personal popularity would doubtless cause him to run ahead of his ticket. Since childhood Mr. Creamer has been a consistent member of

The records of the lives of those men who came to Sangamon County before it had attained its present importance, show how much the people of today owe to those who prepared the way. Farming in earlier days was not the profitable business it is today, nor was it prosecuted so easily. There was but little demand for products and prices were low. Transportation to the larger cities was costly, so the farmer of half a century ago did not expect to do much more than make a bare living. This being true, it is easy to recognize what sacrifices were entailed so that even little might be saved. Literally, penny by penny -was the necessary money accummulated to make a payment on a bit of land. Once it was owned there came the hard work of breaking the soil, planting the seed, harvesting, and then, most difficult of all, finding for the grain a good market. No wonder the farmers of those days wore out and are now enjoying a much-deserved rest, retired from business worries.

CRISSEY, Stephen T. - Agricultural conditions in Sangamon County, Ill., have changed greatly during the past twenty-five or thirty years, and even the farmer of a decade ago is surprised by the innovations he finds when he makes a trip to a farm, the operation of which he has turned over to other hands. Methods, machinery and ideas have improved, with the result that better crops are grown and the farmer's work becomes more and more a thing of machinery, to replace the hard physical labor of a few years ago. One man who has seen the various changes in the calling of farming is Stephen T. Crissey, a venerable citizen of Springfield, and a veteran of the Civil War, who was for thirty years engaged in agricultural pursuits in the county. Mr. Crissey was born in Westchester County, N. Y., March 20, 1838, and is a son of Alva and Julia A. (Tuttle) Crissey, natives of Bedford, N. Y., where the former was born in 1797 and the latter in 1807. The family resided in Westchester County until 1854, at which time they moved to Bates, Ill., sixteen miles west of Springfield, and after spending two years there moved to a farm near Springfield, where Mr. Crissey's parents died. His paternal grandfather fought

Stephen T. Crissey received his education in the country schools of his native locality, after leaving which he went to learn the printer's trade in New York City, and worked there for a short time. He came West with his parents in 1854, and there continued to farm for many years, retiring in 1899, when he came to Springfield. He owns a comfortable home at No. 1227 West Lawrence Avenue, in addition to a large farm and fruit orchard, and is considered one of the substantial men of his community. Mr. Crissey has always been a stanch Republican and has served a number of terms as School Director. In 1860, while living in Loami, Ill., Mr. Crissey took part in a political parade as a member of the "Wide Awake Marching Club," which went from that town to Springfield, the delegation carrying a rail, which was deposited in the yard of Abraham Lincoln's home, and serenaded Lincoln at the ratification of his nomination. He showed his patriotism later by enlisting in Company B One Hundred Thirtieth United States Infantry, from Bunker Hill, Il., and was a prisoner at the Confederate prison in Smith County, Tex., at the time of the assassination of President Lincoln. In August, 1865, he was mustered out of service, his time having expired. He is a member of Stephenson Post No. 30, Grand Army of the Republic. His religious affiliation is with the Methodist Church,

On April 2, 1870, Mr. Crissey was married in Springfield to Emma Duey, who was born in Chippensburg, Pa., in 1850, and whose parents, Philip and Catherine (Dunbar) Duey, natives of same place, were farming people, and came to Sangamon County, Ill., in 1866. Both died there. Of the eight children born to Mr. and Mrs. Crissey the following are living: Warren, a pattern-maker at Ides foundry, residing on South Eleventh Street; Lula, wife of Harry Roundtree, in the employ of the Bruce Searles Piano Company; May, wife of George Henze, a cigar manufacturer of Jacksonville, Ill.; and Florence, wife of Frank Williams, in the employ of the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Company at Springfield, Ill. Mr. and Mrs. Crissey have thirteen .grandchildren.

CRISSEY, William Henry (deceased), who was for many years a carpenter and builder of Springfield, Ill, was born in Westchester County, N. Y., February. 5, 1828, and spent his childhood and youth in his native State, where he received his education. He was a son of Benjamin and Julia (Tuttle) Crissey, the former a native of Westchester County and a shoemaker by trade. After leaving school William H. Crissey engaged in farming and in 1852 came to Illinois, locating on the Ketcham farm in Sangamon County. This farm contained 3,500 acres and Mr. Crissey was engaged in farming on it as assistant manager. In 1864 he located in Springfield, which has since been the family home, and soon became engaged in carpenter work. He later began contracting on his own account and became very successful in this line of enterprise.

Mr. Crissey was married in Westport, Conn., December 17, 1851, to Miss Hannah Jennings Lockwood, who was born in that State, August 2, 1832, daughter of Samuel and Susan Julia (Bunell) Lockwood, both natives of Connecticut. Ten children were born to Mr. Crissey and his wife, of whom five survive, namely: Frank L., a contractor residing in Springfield;

Hattie B., unmarried and living at home with her mother; Nellie M., wife of Frank R. Rogers, resides in Springfield, and have two children - Hattie E., wife of Herbert L. Moore, and F. Donald, resides in Springfield: Susie married Frank P. Gayle, lives in Chicago, and they have one child, Frank W.; Frederick, of Springfield, is married and has five children - Norman H., Harold E., Frederick, Robert and Howard, all at home except Norman and Harold, who attend school.

Mr. Crissey was a member of the First Methodist Church at Fifth and Monroe Streets, Springfield, and in politics was a stanch Republican, although he never took a very active part in public affairs. He was an expert carpenter and won an excellent business reputation. He was a man of social instincts and had many friends, who genuinely mourned his loss. He was devoted to his family and always solicitous of their welfare. Mr. Crissey died in Springfield, December 19, 1879, and his remains were buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery.

CROOK, Alija Robinson, Ph. D., traveler, educator, author and scientist, on December 15, 1906, became Curator of the Illinois State Museum of Natural History, at Springfield. Heredity and environment both had their influence in shaping the life and career of one who for years has reflected honor upon the State of Illinois. The story of his ancestors is interwoven with the early settlement of New England, and he is a direct descendant of William Bradford, the second Governor of the Plymouth Colony. Of the same family came Major- General George Crook, of military fame.

Alija Robinson Crook was born at Circleville, Ohio, June 17, 1864, a son of Rey. Isaac and Emma (Wilson) Crook. Dr. Isaac Crook was born at Crossenville, Perry County, Ohio, December 9, 1833, and is now a resident of Spokane, Wash. He married Emma Wilson, who was born at Delaware, Ohio, November 10, 1836, both he and his wife were graduated from the Ohio Wesleyan University, and he has the degrees of A. M., D. D. and LL. D. For many - years he was a clergyman of the Methodist Episcopal Church and for a number of years was President of the Ohio Wesleyan University, at Athens, Ohio. At the time of his superannuation, he was Presiding Elder of the Chillicothe (Ohio) District. He was a Delegate to the General Conferences and to the Hcumenial Conferences held at Washington and the World's Missionary Conference at Edinburg. He is the author of a number of works, the best known perhaps being: "Jonathan Edwards," "John Knox," and "The Great Expectation," and as a contributor to numerous magazines.

Alija R. Crook secured his degree of A. B. at Ohio Wesleyan University in 1887, and further pursued is studies at Berlin, Zurich and Munich, receiving the degree of Ph. D. at Munich University in 1892. Subsequently, he was a special student in the British Museum, the

Jardin des Plantes and the Brussels Museum, but prior to this, he had been superintendent of the public schools of Mt. Carmel, Ohio. After three years of study in German universities he became professor of natural history at Wheaton (Ill.) College, and continued there until 1893, then became professor of mineralogy and economic geology, at Northwestern University, at Evanston, Ill., where he remained until 1906, when he accepted the position of Curator of the Museum of Natural History in Springfield. Prof. Crook has traveled extensively and has written much, while as a lecturer he has appeared before many scientific bodies, his knowledge of numerous subjects having been obtained first hand. He has climbed Mt. Blanc, Orizaba, and other peaks, has been a member of numerous scientific expeditions, and has personally visited almost every part of the United States and Mexico, and has also made trips to Siberia and Asia Minor. In order to be able to enjoy many of these expeditions and take an able part in the work then done, Prof. Crook has found. it necessary to be something of an athlete, and acknowledges a fondness for aquatie and ice sports, also being a tennis player of no small skill.

December 28, 1904, Prof. Crook married, at Chillicothe, Ohio, Miss Florence' Wayne Purdum, who was born at that place December 4, 1875. They have three children, Elinor, born August 27, 1907; William Henry, born January 10, 1909, and Robert Purdum, born May 23, 1911. Prof. and Mrs. Crook are members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. In his political convictions, he is a Republican, and it is a part of his creed that a public office is a public trust. For fraternal organizations in general, he has never had any taste, but he is identified with a number of scientific bodies, and retains his interest in his old college Greek fraternity. He was twice Secretary and twice President of the Science Club of the Northwestern University ; was twice Honorary Curator of the Chicago Academy of Sciences; is a member of the Sigma Xi, (an honorary scientific society) ; belongs to the National Geological Society and the Academy of Sciences of St. Louis; is a Fellow of the A. A. A. S., a Fellow of the Geological Society of America; Mitglied Der Deutschen Geologischen Gesellschaft. He was the organizer of the State Academy of Science, and its Secretary during 1907-10.

CROWDER, James H. (deceased). - Kentucky has given to Illinois some of its best citizens. The people of the Blue Grass State came of pioneer stock that pushed bravely into the wilderness and redeemed it from the savages. \Wuen the offspring of these pioneers grew to maturity the same love of adventure, the same longing to carve out new homes, assailed them, and they in turn sought new territory, and thus many of them came to Illinois, finding here congenial surroundings. The late James H. Crowder, who for many years was a prosperous far mer and stock dealer of Sangamon County, was born in Green County, Ky., a son of John C. and Polly (Lasswell) Crowder, natives of Kentucky and Tennessee. The father was a farmer and stockman, who in 1824 brought his little family from Kentucky to Illinois, locating in Sangamon County, where they farmed for years. Eventually the parents moved to Springfield, where both passed away, having rounded out useful lives.

James H. Crowder was brought up in Sangamon County, attending district school and working with his father. Those were primitive times, but he never thought he was in any way harmed by the hard work and hardships, for they developed his character and made him able to meet his after experiences bravely and well. In 1849 he secured 160 acres of land, which he began developing into a stock farm. In time he became the owner of about 200 acres, and was recognized as one of the best farmers and stockmen in Sangamon County. However, in the later years of his life he met misfortunes and reverses came. In one respect he was fortunate in having a wife who was a true companion and helpmate, and through her untiring efforts he was well provided for up to the day of his demise. Gradually he began dealing in stock and his business was conducted upon an extensive scale. His death occurred April 15, 1900, at the family residence, No. 1241 West Edwards Street. He had retired from his farm in 1875, moving to Springfield, which continued to be his home until his death. In politics he was a Republican, but, although he cordially supported the candidates of his party, he did not eare for public life. He early joined the Methodist Chureh, of which his wife was a member.

On April 10, 1849, Mr. Crowder was married in Springfield to Mary Ann Wright, born in Kentucky, November 7, 1831, a daughter of Thomas O. and Jane (Phillip-Sparks) Wright, who came to Sangamon County when Mrs. Crowder was eight' years old. There are two of the Wright children surviving: Thomas Wright, of Springfield, and the widow of Rev. Armenstraut, a minister of Griggsville, Ill. during his life, and there Mrs. Armenstraut still resides. Mr. and Mrs. Crowder had no issue. Mrs. Crowder was interested in her home and the work of her church, and was a pleasant, kindly, Christian woman, who accomplished much good and had many warm friends. Mrs. Crowder is now deceased.

CROWDER, Rev. Thomas Jefferson (deceased), for many years prominent in the Methodist Church, and an active supporter of Prohibition, was one of the honored residents of Springfield. He was born May 28, 1835, in the west end of Springfield, a son of John C. Crowder, born in Green County, Ky., in 1802, who there married Mary Laswell. With his wife and two children, he came to Sangamon County, in 1824, entering land in what is now the west end of Springfield, and becoming one of the most successful

Thomas J. Crowder was educated in the country schools and even in childhood was a great reader of the Bible, and espoused the cause of temperance at a very tender age. He signed the pledge when twelve years old, and Abraham Lincoln guided his hand as he wrote his name. This occurrence took place in a school house, after the to-be-distinguished man had addressed an enthusiastic audience on the subject of temperance. Having always been of a religious turn of mind, Thomas J. Crowder began preaching when not more than eighteen years of age. He held charges in both Kansas and Nebraska during the stirring days in the history of those two States, and, needless to say, advocated the Free Soil principles, suffering for his ideas.

On January 14, 1874, Mr. Crowder was married in Jacksonville, Ill., to Martha Tomlin, who was born on her father's farm at Pleasant Plains, September 11, 1839, but later lived in Jacksonville. She isa member of the State Historical Society and the W. C. T. U., having been connected with the latter for thirty years. In the Second Presbyterian Church she is a strong and influential member, and gives much attention to its Missionary Society. All her life she has been a teacher in the Sunday school, and she shared in her husband's advanced temperance ideas. Mr. and Mrs. Crowder had children as follows: J. William, at home; Elizabeth, Mrs. John E. George, of Springfield; Martha Louise, at home; and Edward, of Springfield.

Mr. Crowder passed away February 22, 1911, being seventy-five years and nine months old. During his long and active life he gave liberally of his time and mental attributes to the various causes he so deeply loved. He enlisted for service in the Civil War and although refused on account of physical defects, served in the Home Guard. He held many responsible offices, belonging to the Republican party after its formation, until the Prohibition party became national, and he always acted as his conscience dictated. In 1895 he located in Springfield, at No. 926 Governor Street, where his death occurred. His work as a member of the State Historical Society cannot be over-estimated, and he wrote a number of treatises to defend his position and advance his cause. Charitable and loving, following out in his daily life the principles of the religion he taught, Mr. Crowder rounded out a useful life, and when he died the whole community sorrowed as over the loss of a personal friend. He had lived in stirring times; the earlier part of his life was spent in struggling to help free the black man from the curse of slavery, and the latter part was equally strenuous in behalf of the slaves of alcohol. Such a man will never be forgotten; the good he accomplished will live on into eternity, and men will grow. better, civic conditions will improve, and the cause of Prohibition and religion advance, because of the never-ending

CROWDER, William A. (deceased), for many years a resident of Springfield, Ill., was one of that city's most useful and worthy citizens, being ready to give his support and influence to the promotion of any public movement or enterprise. He was a native of Springfield, born April 15, 1842, son of Washington and Isabel (Laughlin) Crowder, the former born in Lexington, Ky., July 9, 1818, and the latter, also a native of Lexington, born September 27, 1817. The father was a farmer and came to Sangamon County in an early day, settling just outside of Springfield, where the remainder of his life was spent.

The education of William A. Crowder was acquired in the public schools of Springfield and in a business college in that city. After leaving school he taught for several years in the business college then conducted by Messrs. Rutledge & Davidson, and then moved to Oskaloosa, Ia., where he worked in the grocery store of his uncle two years. He then returned to Springfield, and after working two years for his father on the farm, took a position as book-keeper in the grocery store of George Connelly, where he remained eight years. Then for a short time he filled a similar position in the employ of A. H. Saunders, after which he retired from active life. He was an industrious and faithful worker and looked after the interests of his employers carefully. He won many friends in the course of his residence in Springfield, and his loss was keenly felt in many circles. His death occurred at his home, 806 North Tenth Street, Springfield, in 1891, He was a devout member of the Methodist Church and in politics was a Republican.

Mr. Crowder was married in Springfield, November 31, 1865, to Isabel Lauterman, a native of Springfield, born December 23, 1841. Her father came to Springfield from Lexington, Ky., at an early day and entered land where the State House now stands, and afterward entered land which is now included in Washington Park. His wife came from Greensburg, Ky., to Springfield, also in an early day. He died in 1863 and she in 1861, both in Springfield. The Lauterman family lived near the home of Lincoln in Springfield, and were often favored with his visits, so that Mrs. Crowder has many pleasant memories of him, having known him well as a neighbor. Ten children were born to Mr. Crowder and his wife, of whom seven are now living, namely: Charles L., of Springfield, a baggage-man in the employ of the Chicago & Alton Railway Company; Fred C., also of Springfield; George E., of St. Louis, a pressman by trade; William L., of Springfield, linotype operator for the Springfield News; Ethel B., wife of F. L. Irwin, of Fresno, Cal.; Gertrude, wife of William Pannell, a stationary engineer living in Springfield;

CRUDDEN, Patrick (deceased). - Springfield is in the center of a rich mining district that attracts workers from all over the world. 'The mines give employment to thousands of men, who find in the dangerous occupation a means of obtaining a livelihood. Patrick Crudden, now deceased, was a coal miner there. He was born in County Monahan, Ireland, in 1827, and was a genial, warm-hearted, hard-working man, who had friends wherever he went. He was a son of Barney and Mary (Matthews) Crudden, both born in Ireland, where the father was a farmer.

Growing up in Ireland, Patrick Crudden lived with his parents and worked on their farm, until he came to America in search of better opportunities. About 1866 he located in Springfield, which continued his home until his demise, May 4, 1907. His remains were interred in Calvary Cemetery he having been a consistent member of the Catholic Church. In politieal faith he was a Democrat, but never cared for office.

Mr. Crudden was married in Durham, England, in 1858, to Bridget McCardle, born in Ireland, January 5, 1839, a daughter of John and Alice (Murray) McCardle, also natives of Ireland. Mr. McCardle was a farmer in Ireland, which remained his home until his death. Mr. and Mrs. Crudden had the following children: Patrick, born May 9, 1857; Mary Anna, born May 7, 1859; Burnett, deceased, born December 22, 1869; Alice, deceased, born January 1, 1868; Rose, born July 5 1870; Kate, born in 1874; Margaret, born January 5, 1882.. Mrs. Crudden's home is at No. 1803 East Jackson Street. The family are prominent in the Catholic Church, to which all belong. The respect and confidence which Mr. Crudden inspired for his honesty and integrity, won for his family a recognized place in the community, and they are reaping the benefit of his hard work and sterling traits of character.

CUMBERW ORTH, George H. - Many representative men of Sangamon County, after being engaged in a number of other undertakings, return to the cultivation of the soil, believing that in nothing else can they obtain such satisfactory results from their investments of time and money. One of the progressive farmers of Capital Township is George H. Cumberworth, born twelve miles from Sheffield, in Derbyshire, England, October 17, 1859, a son of Henry and Caroline (Hawkins) Cumberworth, both natives of England. Henry Cumberworth was a miner, who followed his calling in his native land until he left for America in 1866, sailing from Liverpool and landing in New York. From that city he came direct to Springfield, where he found employment with the Wabash Railroad Company, but after a year with that company commenced farming. For four years he farmed, but then began mining, and is still in that line of work, although now seventy-eight years old. His home is in Gardner Township. He had the misfortune to lose his wife, June 3, 1895. Their family of three children are all living; George H.; Joseph, a farmer of Capital Township, and Mrs. Anna Cummins, of Gardner Township.

The education of George H. Cumberworth was obtained in a ward school in Springfield. He came to America a year after his father. After leaving school his first work was on his father's farm, but later he went into the mines, and continued in them until he was thirty-two years of age. At that time he embarked in a moving and transfer business in Springfield but after continuing it a quarter of a century, sold out, and D 1902 bought his present farm in Capital Township.

The mariage of Mr. Cumberworth occurred in Springfield, October 18, 1893, to Mary Davis, born in Illinois, January 6, 1856. Her father was a farmer, but is now deceased, as is the mother. Mr. and Mrs. Cumberworth are the parents of two children, Earl and Clara, both of whom are at home. The Methodist Church holds Mr. Cumberworth's membership. He has voted the Democratic ticket since attaining his majority, but does not seek public office. Fraternally he belongs to the Royal Americans. He is one of the progressive men of his township, thoroughly abreast of the times, and understands and appreciates the immense possibilities of agriculture.

CUMMINGS, Joseph. - There are many men now living who remember well the great martyr Abraham Lincoln, whom the world recognizes as the greatest American. They recall the man as they knew him in Springfield, remembering nothing but good, and eyen to this day their eyes fill with tears as they think of his fate. One who has this distinction is Joseph Cummings, a retired farmer of Illiopolis, born in Ross County, Ohio, July 17, 1832. He is a son of Robert and Elizabeth (Shriver) Cummings, the former born in Maryland in 1803, and the latter in Little York, Pa., in 1822. Robert Cummings was a farmer and came to Illinois in 1840, settling in Logan County on a farm which he continued to operate up to the time of his death, in 1865. The family born to himself and wife comprised ten children, but all who survive are Joseph Cummings; Mrs. Elizabeth Corn, of Coffey County, Kan.; Mrs. Catherine Trolipp, of Delavan, Tazewell County, Tll.; Mrs. Margaret Payne, of Normal, Il.

Joseph Cummings was educated in the country school near German Prairie, Clear Lake Township, and during his boyhood he worked for his father on the farm. Learning this line of. work in his youth, Mr. Cummings has carried it on all his life in Sangamon and Logan Counties. In 1898 he moved to Illiopolis

On October 25, 1866, occurred the marriage of Mr. Cummings and Miss Mary J. Cochran, in the old American House at Springfield. She was born in Franklin County, Pa., in 1834, a daughter of Samuel Cochran, who came to Illinois in an early day, locating in Sangamon County, where he engaged in farming, thus continuing until his death. Mrs. Cummings died in 1900, having borne her husband three children: Mary E., wife of George Rose of Pekin, Ill.; Winfield S., of Sangamon County; and Laura F., of Deland, Ill. There are two fine grandchildren in the family.

The religious connections of Mr. Cummings are with the Methodist Church. He is a Republican and had the honor of casting his first vote for Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Cummings greatly misses his wife, whose death was a great shock to him. She was a lovely lady, whose sweet and Christian character endeared her to everyone who knew her. After a long and useful life Mr. Cummings is now enjoying the fruits of his well-applied industry.

CUMMINGS, Peter (deceased), who for many years carried on a farm in Sangamon County, Ill., passed away in the prime of life, leaving a widow and five children to mourn his loss. He was born in Quebec, Canada, and received his education there. His father, Edward Cummings, a butcher by trade, was born in Ireland, and his mother, Alice (Butler) Cummings, was a native of France. The parents were married in Canada and there spent the remainder of their lives.

Mr. Cummings joined the navy in boyhood and served seyeral years. He came to Sangamon County after the close of the Civil War and there became a successful farmer. He was married in Sangamon County, November 11,1870, to Adaline Slaven, born in Pike County, Ill., daughter of W. H. Slaven, a native of Virginia, while his wife was born in Tennessee. W. H. Slaven was an early settler of Pike County, where he carried on farming for a time, then removed to Iowa and spent the remainder of his life there, passing away January 31, 1865. His widow survived him until June, 1876, and died in Williamsville. Mr. Slaven enlisted in a Missouri regiment for service in the Civil War. Five children were born to Mr. Cummings and his wife, of whom four survive: William, a painter living in Springfield; Nellie, wife of Jerry McGrew, of Williamsville, has two children, Bessie and Henrietta; Thomas, in the employ of the Wabash Railroad Company, lives at Taylorville; George, a chef, living at Williamsville.

In religious views Mr. Cummings was a Methodist, and his widow is a member of the Baptist Church. He was a Republican in polities, but took no active part in public affairs, being much devoted to his home and family. He died January 21, 1887, in his fortieth year, and was buried in Walnut Hill Cemetery. He was respected and esteemed by the entire community where he had lived many years, and his loss was genuinely mourned by many friends. For the past twenty-three years his widow has lived in her present home in Williamsville, which she owns. Mr. Cummings was an enterprising and industrious farmer and upright and honest in all his dealings, enjoying an excellent reputation among his associates.

CURRIER, Mrs. Mary Priest. - No names in the long list of prominent and useful men of Illinois stand higher, or have a better chance of preservation against forgetfulness, as generations sweep on into eternity, than those of Priest and Currier, both of which are so intimately associated with the history of the State. The remarkable careers of John W. Priest and Silas Wright Currier, have already been covered in another portion of this work. 'Their successes were built on such firm foundations, that only total oblivion can erase their names from the tablets of Illinois' great and noble men. Their descendants and those who were in any way associated with them, have every reason to be proud of them.

Mrs. Mary Priest Currier, daughter of one of these men and widow of the other, is one of the most highly esteemed ladies of Springfield. She was born in that city, November 2, 1848, daughter of John W. Priest, whose biography appears on another page in this volume. Mrs. Currier is a graduate of the Springfield High School, and learned in her home those virtues and housewifely characteristics which have made her so excellent a wife and mother. She did more, however. Realizing very early in girlhood that she possessed a mind that was masculine in its strength, she daily added to her store of knowledge growing up interested in all that took place about her. She has taken an active interest in all that tends to the advancement of womanhood and character, having served on the Board of Managers of the King's Daughters' Home for Old Ladies, and the Home of the Friendless; is a member of the Woman's Club of Springfield; is a life member of the Daughters of the American Revolution; is a member of the King's Daughters, of the Foreign and Home Missionary Societies of the Baptist Church, and the Ladies' Aid Society. No mere words can do justice to what she has accomplished through her efforts and influence. It is to such women as she, that so many of the improved conditions in Springfield, and the State of Illinois, are due. Mrs. Currier is entitled to several bars on the insignia of the Daughters of the American Revolution, from the fact that she is a descendant of several participants in the war for American Independence, and is also entitled to membership in the society of Colonial Dames.

8, 1846. One daughter, Mary Currier Hatcher, was born in Springfield, June 19, 1880, a full sketch of whose life will be found elsewhere in this work. Mrs. Currier has long been an active and very efficient member of the Central Baptist Church of Springfield.

CURRIER, Silas Wright (deceased). - When a man who has been a power in any community dies, his loss is felt keenly, and it is then that his true worth is first realized. His work among his fellow citizens had been going on, quietly and steadily, but had not been appreciated until his taking away deprived others of the benefit of his labors, so it was not until then that they could fully sense his true merits. Silas Wright Currier, one of Springfield's foremost men, whose death robbed the community of an able, upright citizen, was born in Potsdam, N. Y., January 8, 1846.

Frederick Currier, the father of Silas W. Currier, was born in Vermont, in 1806, of English and Welch ancestors, and his life occupations were those of a farmer and carpenter. He was married to Adeline Ellis, whose ancestors fought in the Revolution, born in 1810, in Vermont, of Scotch lineage. They had the following children: Mrs. Hannah Hand, now a resident of Flushing, L. I.; Mrs. Adeline Roe and Mrs. John Young, both of Brooklyn, N. Y.; Edward F.. who resides in Oneonta, N. Y.; Franklin, a Civil War veteran, who died in Michigan; Theodore, alSo a soldier, who died at David's Island during the war; Silas Wright; Henry and George, both of whom died at Norfolk, N. Y.; Harriet. who died at Brooklyn, N. Y., at the age of seventy-two years; and Ida, who died in infancy. The father passed away at Norwood, N. Y., in 1882, and his widow died in Brooklyn, in 1899.

Silas Wright Currier was a business genius, and he had no peers in the line of organization and promotion. The one thing, and the only one, that held him back was his utter refusal to take part in any plan that would deprive others of their just and full due. Clean, honest and upright in all of his own dealings, he could not see his way clear to associate himself with others who were not as scrupulous. Mr. Currier was the organizer of the Elevator Milling Company, which purchased the old Eastman elevator and later erected a plant and warehouse. This business grew to extensive proportions becoming one of the most important industrial interests in Springfield. He remained in the capacity of president and treasurer of this large enterprise up to the time of his death, his service covering a period of sixteen years. In addition he was a stockholder and Director in the State National Bank; a stockholder in the Springfield Paving Brick Company, a heavy stockholder in the Hotel Silas, which he himself erected; was also engaged in farming in Clear Lake Township, Sangamon County, and in Christian County, Ill. Mr. Currier's interests were ofa varied character, but he handled them all in that keen, decisive manner that marks a leader in the business world, notwithstanding the fact that for years, he was handicapped by poor health.

On July 15, 1878, Mr. Currier was married, in Springfield, to Mary E. Priest, a native of that city, born November 2, 1848, daughter of John W. Priest, one of Springfield's most prominent citizens, whose biography appears on another page in this volume. One daughter, Mary (Currier) Hatcher (whose biography also appears elsewhere in this work), was born of this union, June 19, 1880. Fraternally, Mr. Currier was connected with the Elks and belonged to the Sangamo Club. He was always a generous contributor to church, fraternal and charitable movements, as well as to any enterprise that promised to be of benefit to Springfield or the State. The name of Silas Wright Currier will ever be associated with all that is sincere and upwright, and he will be remembered as an example of the highest type of citizenship. His death occurred November 20, 1902.

DALBEY, James Eastman, member of a family that has long been prominent in Springfield, Ill., was born at the family home at 1157 North Third Street, October 23, 1876, the only son of Joel and Araminta L. (Power) Dalbey, the paternal ancestors being of Scotch-Irish parentage and the maternal ones English. The Power family emigrated from Kentucky, where they were people of position and prominence, to Sangamon County, Ill. Joel Dalby was born in Pickaway County, Ohio, about 1827 or 1828, and passed his boyhood on a farm there. As a young man, he and two of his brothers came to Springfield, Ill., and shipped live stock from there. The parents of James E. Dalbey were married in Springfield and made their home at the house on North Third Street which has since been owned and occupied by the Dalbey family. The father died in 1903 and the mother in 1906. They were members of the First Presbyterian Church and were parents of two children, Jenny Emeline, who was born in 1872 and died in 1876, and James E.

In boyhood James Eastman, Dalbey attended the public schools of his native city, from which he graduated with the class of 1895, and when eighteen years of age entered the employ of the Municipal Electric Light Company, where he works at the present time. He has become a skilled and capable electrician and is one of the city's most trusted employees. He is most thorough and conscientious in his work and has thus been able to secure an advance in his position from an inferior one in the beginning to one of importance and responsibility.

Mr. Dalbey was married in Springfield, November 14, 1906, to Miss Bertha Kelly, daughter of the late J. H. and Tilda Kelly, and one child has blessed this union, Araminta Tilda. Mr. Dalbey inherited the family home at the death of his parents and has kept this handsome place in good repair. He and his wife are members of the United Brethren Church, of which Mr. Dalbey is Trustee at present. Mr. Dalbey is a Republican in National elections but in general votes for the best man, regardless of party affiliations.

DAMKUS, Joseph K., a well-known citizen of Springfield, Ill., was born in the village of Sothkalneie, Russia, March 19, 1875, his parents being natives of the same village. The father, Baltrameius Damkus, was born in 1825 and died in 1910, and the mother, Antinie Tomoszaitis, was born in 18382 and died in 1907. The father was a farmer and he and his wife spent their entire lives in Russia. They were parents of ten children, nine sons and one daughter, Joseph K. being the ninth child. They were: Benedict; John; Tom; Frank; William; Michael, died at the age of thirty-eight years; Anton died at the age of twenty-one years; Joseph, named after the oldest child, who died three years of age; Sister Weronika, lives in Russia.

In youth Mr. Damkus was unable to attend school, and is practically self-educated. He remained at home and worked on his father's farm until eighteen years of age, when he came to America, arriving in 1893. He remained in Chicago until 1896, being employed at various kinds of work, but in that 'year came to Springfield. In 1897, he returned to Chicago, but the following year Game again to Springfield, where he located permanently. He followed coal mining several years, and in 1906, under the administration of Mayor David Griffiths, was appointed on the police force. He has served as police officer under the administrations of Mayors Roy Reece, and John Schnepp, He is independent in political views, and is a member of SS. Peter and Paul Catholic Church. He has made the most of his opportunities for education and improvement since coming to America, and is able to speak ten different languages, being a natural linguist.

Mr. Damkus was married in Springfield June 11, 1901, at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, by Father Hickey, to Isabel Adomaitys, who was born in Balandzin, Russia, in 1876, a daughter of Michael and Peatronely Adomaitys Sztokans. Her father was born in 1844, and died in 1902, and her mother, born in 1849, died in 1886. Mrs. Damkus is the oldest of. three children, the others being Annie and Anton. Mr. Damkus and wife have two children: Joseph Silveryans, born June 20, 1902, and Dionizijans M., born October 22, 1903. The family are well known and have a number of friends. They reside at 1809 North Tenth Street. Mr. Damkus is of striking appearance, being six feet ope and one-half inches in height, and weighs 340 pounds.

DANIEL, Nathan T. - One of the important features of all Illinois cities is the location there of retired farmers who, after years devoted to the tilling of the soil, have given up active pursuits and are prepared to devote more time to the study of civic conditions, Nathan T. Daniel has made Springfield his home for some years and in earlier years was a well-known agriculturist. He was born in Clay County, Ill., November 10, 1847, a son of John and Paulina (Barrah) Daniel, the former born in Clay County, IL, in 1824, and the latter in Ohio, in 1825. The father was a farmer and spent his life in Clay County, where his death occurred. The paternal grandfather was a soldier of the Mexican War, who located in Clay County, Il., at a time when that locality was but sparsely settled.

Nathan T. Daniel: grew up in Clay County, working on a farm, and he has devoted his life to this class of work. In the fall of 1866 Mr. Daniel left Clay County, going to Kansas, where he remained until 1871 when he moved to Indiana. In 1875 he returned to Clay County, whence he came to Sangamon County, which has since been his piace of residence. Mr. Daniel served under Custer, in Company S, Nineteenth Kansas Cavalry, participating in the battle of Antelope Bluff, in which Chief Black Kettle was killed. In addition, he was a participant in other less important engagements. While a stanch Republican, Mr. Daniel has not taken an active part in public life, but can always be counted upon to give an active support to any enterprise he believes will be beneficial to the community at large. In religious faith he is a Presbyterian.

Mr. Daniel was married in Clay County, Ill., August 20, 1875, to Sarah Davis, born in Ohio, in 1855. The following children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Daniel: Estella, born August 28, 1876; Flora, born in October, 1878; Edward, born April 29, 1880; Elizabeth, born November 7, 1882; Louis E., born in October, 1884; John, born April 2, 1886, and Alma, born August 30, 1892. The family have a pleasant residence at No. 1700 East Maple Street. He is a man of pleasing manner, social in his tastes, and has a number of warm personal friends in Sangamon and Clay Counties. Before his retirement he had owned and developed a fine farm which was one of the best in his neighborhood. His success was due to his industry and thrift, as well as to his knowledge of the best methods of farming.

DANIELS, James M., who has long been a resident of Sangamon County, Ill, and has seen many changes take place in this section, has the distinction of being one of the self-made men of Pleasant Plains, where he is now engaged in the poultry, egg and fish business. Mr. Daniels was born near Chillicothe, Ohio, November 18, 1841, a son of John and Percilla (Radcliff) Daniels, and a grandson on the paternal side of a Revolutionary soldier who served throughout the war.

Ohio, where seven of their fourteen children were born. Of their children those living are: Nancy Daniels, widow of Chesley D.. Smith, now residing in Oklahoma City, Okla.; Samuel, who resides in South Dakota; and James M. in 1849 John Daniels and wife settled in Cartwright Township, Sangamon County, but in 1852 the family went to Daviess County, Mo., and lived until 1858, then moved to Abingdon, Ill. While at this place the mother and two children died of cholera, there being an epidemic in Illinois at that time, and the father returned to Daviess County, Mo., where he remained until his death in February, 1865.

In 1860, when but nineteen years old, James M. Daniels decided to return to Illinois, working his passage back by helping his brother-inlaw, William Willis, drive his stock from Missouri to Sangamon County. He had left with a cash capital of ten cents in his pocket, but during a friendly scuffle with his brother, John, lost this small sum. John Daniels afterwards went to Centralia, Ill., and there died. Thrown thus on his own resources, James M. Daniels secured work by the month in Illinois and about 1866 had saved enough to rent a farm. On January 9, 1868, he was united in marriage with Miss Matilda Parkison, who was born near Circleville, Ohio, November 15, 1850, daughter of Hugh and Ellen Frances (Jackson) Parkison, natives of New York and Baltimore, Md., respectively. The Jackson and Parkison famlies both removed to Circleville, Ohio, where Mrs. Daniels' parents were married, and they came to Illinois in 1856, settling in Cartwright Township, where Mr. Parkison carried on farming until 1874, in that year removing to Christian County. Here he purchased a farm, which he operated until his death about 1892, while his widow still survives, having reached the ripe old age of eighty-five years. To them there were born a large family of children as follows: Stephen, who died at the age of fortyone years; David, who died in 1901, when fifty years of age; Carrie, who was the wife of George Sutton, both being deceased; Sarah, who died at the age of sixty-four years; John, who lives with his mother at Millersville, Il. ; Joseph, a retired merchant of Springfield; Ella, the wife of Thomas W. Knott, of Millersville; Anna, the wife of Cyrus Moore, of Assumption; Minnie, the wife of Edward Allison, of Chicago ; William, a farmer near Pana; and Newton, residing at Shelbyville, Il.

After marriage Mr. and Mrs. Daniels located on a farm and in 1871 purchased a farm in Cartwright Township, which Mr. Daniels operated until 1882, then selling out to buy the farm now operated by Marshall Grider. In 1887 that farm was sold and Mr. Daniels entered the lumber business, but for the past few years he has been engaged in the egg, poultry and fish business at Pleasant Plains. He can look back with pleasure over his many years of hard work, from the time when the present town of Pleasant Plains was but a mud- hole and the country wild and uncultivated, and can also take pleasure in the fact that he is now a substantial business man through the efforts and industry he has expended, from the time when his capital was ten cents. Mr. and Mrs. Daniels now reside in a pleasant home on Hast North First Street, where all the friends of the family are sure of a hearty welcome. They have long been members of the Methodist Church and Mr. Daniels, while never seeking public preferment, has always been interested in Democratic politics. Fraternally he is connected with the Modern Woodmen of America at Pleasant Plains.

Mr. and Mrs. Daniels have had four children: David, born September 4, 1869, a traveling lumber salesman whose home is in Springfield, married Olive Smith; Luther, born September 18, 1871, section foreman for the Central Pacific & Saint Louis Railroad Company, married Mollie McGraw and has one child, Velma; Hattie, born October 10, 1873, is the wife of Albert Irwin, of Flora, Ill, and has two sons - Loran and Leonard; and James A., born October 15, 1876, Cashier of the bank of Heyworth, Ill., married Miss Libbie Purvines and had two children, Russell and Guinlin.

DASHER, Edwin Huston, Sr. - Sangamon County has an established reputation all over the State for the quality and excellence of its instructors, through whose efforts the schools of this locality have been developed so remarkably. One of the men who haye been largely instrumental in bringing out this desirable condition of educational affairs, is Edwin Huston Dasher, Sr., now of Pleasant Plains, Ill. Mr. Dasher was born at Columbus, Ohio, November 19, 1873, being a son of George Clay and Frances Beatrice (Thomas) Dasher. The father was born at Lewisburg, Ohio, June 12, 1845, while his wife was born at Columbus, Ohio, September 19, 1851. For a quarter of a century, the father was a teacher, during which time he was professor of mathematics at Columbus, Ohio, besides holding numerous superintendencies. His parents came from Virginia, and were of German descent. The Dasher settlement in Ohio occurred in 1835. The Thomas family came from the North of Ireland, so Mr. Dasher has good, sturdy ancestors back of him.

Mr. Dasher graduated from Lincoln High School in 1893, from the Interstate Correspondence School in 1901, and Brown's Business College in 1910. He located in Sangamon County in 1907, when he settled at Pawnee, coming there from Christian County, Ill. He began teaching school September, 1893, at Blue Grass, near Atlanta, Ill., remaining there for a year. He then took charge of schools near Morrisonville, and taught there for nine years, when, in 1897, he taught at Monegan for a year. In 1898, 1899 and 1900, he taught at Shiloh, and for the following two years was at Evergreen. From 1908 to 1904 he taught at White Oak; returned to Evergreen for a year, and then, in

1905, went to King. In 1907 he taught at Sanders, and during 1908 and 1909 was Principal of the Pawnee High School, now holding the same responsible position with regard to the Pleasant Plains High School, receiving a salary of ninety dollars per month. Mr. Dasher has always been enthusiastic regarding his work, and never neglected any opportunity for enlarging his scope or broadening his outlook. He is a man who possesses in marked degree the power to impart knowledge, and has always been very popular with the pupils and their parents, who have appreciated his efforts. Believing in organization, Mr. Dasher is an active and valued member of the Sangamon County Teachers' Association and the Illinois State Teachers' Association.

On January 18, 1899, Mr. Dasher was united in marriage at Morrisonville, Ill., with Clara Reasoner Lyles, born near that town, December 30, 1880. Mrs. Dasher's parents, John W. and Harriet J. (Bettis) Lyles, came to Christian County, Ill., in 1869, locating one mile south and one mile east of the southeast corner of Sangamon County. Mr. and Mrs. Dasher are parents of the following children: Daniel Archie, born July 24, 1902; Mildred Evelyn, born October 6, 1906; Edwin Huston, Jr., born June 23, 1908, and Roscoe Wiley, born November 20, 1910. Mr. Dasher's conscientious scruples and principles make him a Prohibitionist. In re ligious faith he is a Methodist, and for six years was superintendent of a Sunday School near Pawnee and one year at Pawnee. Alive, thoroughly abreast of the day, keenly interested in everything pertaining to his profession, Mr. Dasher is one of the best teachers this county has ever secured, and his valuable services are estimated at their true worth.

DAVIDSON, George W. - One of the most prominent farmers of Sangamon County, Ill., is George W. Davidson, who is always ready to lend his influence and services to any public enterprise in his community, or to help those in trouble or need. Mr. Davidson was born in Ball Township, Sangamon County, March 12, 1855, son of Samuel and Amanda (Knuckles) Davidson whose biography appears on another page of this work.

In boyhood George W. Davidson attended Oak Ridge School in Pawnee Township, and lived at home until he was thirty years of age. He then began farming on his own account and has been very successful. He bought and shipped stock for many years, and has been enterprising and progressive in his operations, being a man of excellent business judgment. He is very found of fox hunting and outdoor sports of all kinds, and spends many of his hours of leisure in this diversion. He has traveled but little, being very fond of home and devoted to his family. He now owns 410 acres of fine farming land on Section 10.of Divernon Township, and carries on general farming, besides caring for his other business interests. He is

Mr. Davidson was married in St. Louis, Mo., October 22, 1888, by Rev. Matthews, to Ann E. Shepherd, born in Sangamon County, December 12, 1862, daughter of Thomas B. and Arminda (Pyle) Shepherd, the former a native of Maryland and the latter born in St. Clair County, Ill., October 13, 1838, died in Sangamon County, January 30, 1907, being buried in Oak Ridge Cemetery, Springfield. Mr. Shepherd has retired from active life and lives in Pawnee. Mr. Davidson and his wife have three children, namely: Flossie L., born August 18, 1889; Lelia F., December 3, 1891; and George S., April 15, 1907, allat home. Mrs. Davidson is one of three children, the others being: Thomas A., the oldest, a prominent farmer of Sangamon County, married Marian M. Weber and they have three children - Stella M., George W. and Charles R.; Mary E., married Charles W. Anderson, who died in March, 1901, and she now lives in Pawnee and has two children - tLeslie C. and Nellie S. Mr. Davidson was one of nine children, of whom four are deceased.

In politics Mr. Davidson is a Democrat, but usually votes for the man rather than for party. He has served as Road Commissioner and School Director. Fraternally he belongs to Co rt of Honor No. 334 and to the Odd Fellows Lodge No. 200, at Divernon. He and his family are earnest members of the Methodist Church and active in church and benevolent work.

DAVIDSON, Samuel, now living retired from active life, on Section 8, Pawnee Township, Sangamon County, Ill., has carried on agricultural operations all his life and has been successful to a gratifying degree. Mr. Davidson was born in Davidson County, Tenn., October 19, 1821, and is a son of John and Elizabeth (Hall) Davidson, the former born in North Carolina and the latter in Tennessee. The father was a farmer and was brought by his parents to Tennessee when a boy, Davidson County, that State, being named after his father, John Davidson moved from Tennessee to Indiana, bringing his family with him, and later came to Illinois. He located first at Vandalia, and afterward moved to Macoupin County, where both he and his wife died, on a farm about four miles west of Girard. The maternal and paternal grandfathers of Samuel Davidson died in Tennessee, where they had located at an early day.

Samuel Davidson received his education in the country schools of Illinois and lived on his father's farm until he reached his majority, then lived in the family of Abner Knotts until his marriage. He has been a resident of Tlinois since he reached the age of five years and has lived in his present home since 1857. He was a hardworking and energetic farmer and brought his land to a high state of cultivation. He has lived retired for several years and hi-res the work done by others. but retains charge of the conduct of the farm. He owns 160 acres of excellent land and has good substantial buildings on same. He and his wife have witnessed the remarkable development of central Illinois, as she was born in Sangamon County and he has spent most of his life in the State. His parents came with a wagon from Tennessee, and the family bore the hardships and dangers incident to early frontier life.

The marriage of Mr. Davidson took place in Ball Township, May 9, 1850, when he was united by Rev. Bradshaw with Amanda Knuckles, daughter of John and Ann (Collins) Knuckles, the former a native of North Carolina and the latter of New Jersey. The father of Mr. Knuckles was a native of North Carolina, where his death occurred, and the father of Ann Collins, who was born in Virginia, also died in that State. Nine children were born to Mr. and Mrs. Davidson, of whom four are deceased. Those living are: Samuel M., born September 5, 1861; Thomas J., born March 4, 1864, married Carrie Johnson; George W., born March 12, 1855, lives near his father, is the owner of 560 acres of land, and married Anna E. Shepherd; Amanda V., born May 26, 1866, is unmarried and lives at home; Miriam, born October 5, 1868, is the second wife of Samuel Stout; Charles C., born June 5, 1872, died August 25, 1892; Ann, born April 24, 1881, married John Moore, and died February 18, 1905; Emma A., born March 25, 1858, was the first wife of Samuel Stout (who married as his second wife her sister Miriam), and died September 13, 1891; Douglas, born June 25, 1853, died November 6, 1869. There are thirteen grandchildren in the family.

Mr. Davidson and his family are active members of the Methodist Church and live up to the principles and tenets of their faith. He has been a resident of his present home more than half a century and is well known and much respected by the entire community, as a man of sterling worth and high character. He is a Democrat in politics and served many years as School Director. He has also been for many years a Trustee in the Methodist Church and is interested in every good cause.

DAVIES, Morgan A. - One of the men of Sangamon County in whom burns the fire of poetic genius is the well known poet, Morgan A. Davies, who was highly honored at the Columbian Exposition in 1893, as well as upon many other occasions. He is a native of Wales, born March 15, 1845, being a son of David and Amelia (Jones) Davies, the former born in London, England, and the latter in Walés. The paternal grandfather was an eminent divine of the Baptist faith, while the maternal grandfather was prominent in local affairs, serving his parish as Road Commissioner for forty years. Both parents of Mr. Davies spent their lives in Great Britain, dying in Wales, and he is the only one of his family to come to the United States.

After a boyhood spent in hard work for his father and in the Welsh mines, during which time he received no educational advantages, Mr. Davies came to the land of promise, landing at Castle Garden, July 19, 1869. At once he found employment in the mines at Akron, Ohio, where he remained until 1877, when he removed to Macon County, Mo., there embarking in a grocery business. From that location he went to New Mexico; thence to Spring Valley, finally settling at Divernon, Ill., which is now his place of residence. Since locating here he has taken an active part in local matters, being a strong Republican, and aside from acting as Election Judge upon many occasions, is now Justice of the Peace.

On May 13, 1875, Mr. Davies was married at Coal Valley, Rock Island County, Ill., to Lucy Phillips, born in Wales, who came here when only one year old. Her parents, William and Hannah (Reece) Phillips located first in Irontown, Ohio, upon their arrival in the United States, but later removed to Coal Valley. Still later they went to Carroll County, lowa, where both died on a farm they had bought. The grandparents of Mrs. Davies never left Wales. Mr. and Mrs. Davies became the parents of one child, a son, Ithel B., born in Rock Island County, Ill., February 29, 1876. Mrs. Davies was one of six children born to her parents. She and another were born in Wales, but the remaining four were born in the United States.

Mr. Davies is a member of the Knights of Pythias, Odd Fellows, Red Men and Foresters, and is next to the oldest member in the first named lodge. His religious affiliations are with the Congregational Church. Since early youth he has been connected with this denomination and counts his religious experiences as among the happiest of his life. He is a man who carries his religion with him, not making a task of carrying out its mandates, but enjoying them, and his influence for good is deeply felt by all who are brought into contact with him.

Without regular scholastic training, Mr. Davies has taught himself, and has developed his talents until he is one of the best representatives of Welsh poesy the country knows. During the World's Fair at Chicago Mr. Davies had the distinction of being sent to it as the representative of the Welsh Literary World, and while there gained many honors. His genius was recognized and he has a number of medals won during that period. While enjoying his poetic work, Mr. Davies has not neglected practical matters, but has amassed a considerable amount of property, a portion of which has been gained from his writings, and is one of the solid men of Sangamon County. His verse rings with the true Welsh spirit, and his words of encouragement have raised many a drooping spirit and brought back into the fold more than one straying brother, who had forgotten early teachings in the glare of worldly pursuits. Mr. Davies' son is a shareholder and Manager of the Bradley Knitting Company, of Delavan,

DAVIS, George, who has been a resident of Springfield since about 1883, from that time to the present has been connected with mining interests in the vicinity. He has been employed as mine inspector and mine manager by various concerns, and is at present connected with the Chicago & Springfield Mining Company. He has spent most of his life in mining, having worked in several English mines before coming to America. He was born in Gloucestershire, England, July 1, 1846, and after attending the country schools near his home, where he paid a tax of about two cents per week for the privilege, attended a college. He was one ot the five children (four sons and one daughter) of Thomas and Ann (Newell) Davis, both of whom spent their entire lives in England, being natives of Gloucestershire. The father was a contractor.

After leaving school George Davis was apprenticed to the trade of tinner, but worked at it only a short time and then became employed ina mine, He traveled throughout England and worked in different capacities in various mines. He emigrated to America in 1881, landing in Boston, and shortly afterwards came to Braceville, Ill., where he spent two years, before locating in Springfield, which has since been his home. He possesses business and executive ability and has for several years past been a manager for the company by which he is now employed. He is popular with his associates and respected by all who know him, as an enterprising, useful citizen.

Mr. Davis was married, in England, December 24, 1869, to Miss Joanna Jones, who was born in Brecknockshire, South Wales, in 1849, and died in Springfield, February 19, 1910. Her father was a shepherd in South Wales, where he and his wife spent their entire lives. They had two sons and three daughters. Mr. Davis and his wife had eight sons and four daughters, of whom but four sons survive, namely: George, of Springfield; Ernest, of Kansas City, Mo.; Thomas J. and William, of Springfield. Mr. Davis has seven grandchildren. He resides at 1711 East Sangamon Avenue, Springfield. Mr. Davis is a member of the Methodist Church and is affiliated with the Royal Circle organization.

DAVIS, James E. - The family of which James E. Davis is a member, has been well known in Sangamon County, Ill., for eighty years. Mr. Davis is a native of the county, born November 17, 1840, son of Richard and Elizabeth (Neal) Davis, natives of Kentucky, the former born in April, 1800, and the latter born in Nelson County, about 1803. They were married and had one child in Kentucky and emigrated to Sangamon County, Ill., arriving before the deep snow of 1830-31. They had three children born in Sangamon County. Richard Davis was a shoemaker by trade and served in the Black Hawk War. The children born to him and his wife were: George L. died unmarried in 1856;

The education of James E. Davis was acquired in the public schools of Springfield and he has lived in the city most of his life. Upon leaving school he began work at brick-making, and enlisted, August 2, 1862, in Springfield, in Company F, Twelfth Volunteer Infantry, serving under General Wallace. He served to the end of the war in this company and made a record of which he is justly proud. He was mustered out at Richmond, Va., August 11, 1865, having participated in many of the important engagements of the war, among them: Battle of the Wilderness, Weldon Railroad, North Ann, Cold Harbor and Pebble Farm. He is a member of Stephenson Post No. 30, G. A. R., and also belongs to the M. W. A.

Upon his return after the close of the war, Mr. Davis was employed in the blacksmith shops of the Wabash Railroad Company for about eight years, then became a member of the Springfield Fire Department about 1900 and has lived retired ever since. He has always been an enterprising citizen of Springfield and has been deeply interested in its progress and welfare. Having been born and reared in the city, he has a large number of friends. He is highly esteemed for his kindly, genial disposition and his many sterling qualities. He owns a very comfortable home at 907 North Third Street, Springfield, and there he and his wife delight in meeting and entertaining their friends. Mr. Davis is a member of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church and in politics is a Democrat.

The marriage of Mr. Davis took place at Springfield, August 8, 1868, when he was united with Rose McGrane, daughter of Lawrence and Catherine (Bradley) McGrane, born in County West Meath, Ireland, November 31, 1852. Her parents embarked on board a ship which was wrecked, and they were seven months at sea, before landing in New York. They came to Morristown, N. J. The wife died there about 1895. Mrs. Davis was the youngest of eight children and all are deceased. They were all members of the Catholic Church. Two children have blessed this union, Christina, born July 30, 1880, and William J., November 22, 1874. Mrs. Davis is a woman of culture and high character and is loved by all who have the

DAVIS, James W. - After many years devoted to arduous toil, Sangamon County farmers feel that they have earned the right to enjoy the fruits of their labors and, retiring from active work, settle down in towns adjacent to the scenes of their former homes, where they are free to give more attention to civic matters. A representative of this class is James W. Davis, of Illiopolis, born in Adams County, Ohio, March 4, 1833, a son of John and Martha A, (Douglas) Davis, the former born in New York City, and the latter in Pennsylvania. John Davis was a cabinetmaker and wheelwright.

The Davis family originated in Germany, the grandparents of James W. Davis having come from that country to America, locating in New York City. Later they moved to Ripley County, Ind., but, after farming there a short itme, went to Kentucky, dying there. From Kentucky John Davis moved to Adams County, Ohio, at an early date, locating in West Union, where he followed his trade of cabinetmaking until 1847, but in that year, losing his wife, he went to Lewistown, Ill., and there spent the remainder of his life, dying at the home of a daughter. There were five children in the family, but all are now deceased except James W.

Mr. Davis was given better educational advantages than many, having the privilege of attending the city school of West Union. During his boyhood he assisted his father, later engaging in different lines. He was in Kentucky when the war broke out, and farmed eight years in Mason County. He then came to Illinois, locating at Mechanicsburg. At the end of two years he went to Lake Fork, Logan County, farming there for three years. From there he came to Lliopolis, resuming farming. He is now one of the retired residents of his town, owning his comfortable home.

Mr. Davis has been thrice married, his first wife having been Margaret Scott whom he married in Kentucky. She was born in Mason County, Ky., and died in Mechanicsburg. She bore her husband four children: Joseph, living at Harristown, Ill.; Sarah, living in Springfield; Mattie, wife of George Phillips, an engineer, living in Illiopolis; George living in Springfield. Mr. Davis was married in Mechanicsburg to Lula Rousch, born in Macoupin County, Ill., and died in Illiopolis, having borne her husband one son, William, living in Springfield. The third marriage of Mr. Davis took place in Llliopolis, to Mary Regar, born in Ohio. Her parents were among the pioneers of Illinois. Mrs. Davis died April 11, 1906. By this marriage there were five children: Edward and Roy, living in Illiopolis; Pearl married John Gano, of Springfield, and one child, Walter, deceased.

A stanch Democrat, Mr. Davis has always supported his party, and appreciation of his services was shown in his election to the office of Constable, in which he served four years. He also served for five years as Town Marshal, and has been Street Commissioner, giving faithful and valuable service in each office. In the Christian Church he has long been a power, contributing liberally towards its support and aiding in its good work. Through earnest efforts he has accumulated considerable property, which places him in comfortable circumstances, and he is now enjoying the results of a well-spent life. There are few men who stand higher in his community than he, and his success is merited, for it has been earned through hard work.

Springfield, Il., has been very successful in carrying on farming and gardening and has lived in the vicinity of his present home for twenty-six years. Mr. Davis was born in Somersetshire, England, August 27, 1852, and ig a son of Samuel and Anna (Garland) Davis, both natives of England, the former born in 1835 and the latter in 1831, and both died in England. The parents resided on a farm and were parents of four children, three daughters and one son: Eliza Jane, deceased; Sarah Ann, wife of Walter Penn, living in England ; Emily, wife of John Cullen, a farmer living near Macomb, McDonough County, Ill., and John. The mother passed away in 1901 and the father the following year.

In boyhood John Davis attended the public schools of his native country and worked on his father's farm until about seventeen or eighteen years of age, then worked by the week at farming for three years, being employed by various neighboring farmers. He came to America in 1873 and located first in Sangamon County. He went to Christian County in 1876 and worked there two years, then returned to Sangamon County and purchased a small tract of land where he now lives. He owns twenty acres and, as the land is within the city limits, it is worth about six hundred dollars per acre He devotes much of it to market gardening and has met with gratifying success in this enterprise. He has a comfortable house at 2300 East Laurel Street.

Mr. Davis was married in Springfield, April 5, 1879, to Miss Mary A. Eddington, born August 27, 1853, daughter of Joseph and Rhoda (Pittman) Eddington, who came to America from England in 1880, locating on Cook Street in Springfield, and both are now deceased. The father died in 1903, at the age of ninety-five years, and the mother in 1907, at the age of eighty-four years. Ten children were born to Mr. Davis and his wife, namely: William, a gardener of Sangamon County; Genevieve, wife of Everheardt Heissinger, a gardener of Sangamon County; Joseph, a gardener; Edward works at home; Anna, wife of Troy Foster, at home; Lillie and Albert at home; Samuel, a miner in Springfield. Mr. Davis has four grandchildren, two girls and two boys.

Mr. Davis is a member of Liberty Camp No. 1534, Modern Woodmen of America, and has belonged to the order about twenty years. His wife is a member of the Royal Neighbors. He also belongs to the Congregational Church. In political views he is a Republican. He came to America a poor young man, about the time he reached his majority, and through his own efforts has acquired a competence. He was reared to habits of industry and sobriety and has governed his actions in accordance with principles of honesty and integrity, thus winning the esteem and confidence of his fellows. Mr. and Mrs. Davis have been to England twice and expect to visit their native home again.

DAVIS, J. McCan. - There are few more interesting personalities in Sangamon County, Il., than J. McCan Davis, through whose intimate knowledge of men and events, grasp of politics and political situations, his fellow citizens have gained their comprehensive view of what has been the making of history. A man of versatile talents, seemingly he would have been successful in almost any line of endeavor, and has been particularly so in his literary work, which has covered both journalism and authorship.

J. McCan Davis was born in Fulton County, Il., November 19, 1866, and obtained his early educational training in the public schools. In boyhood he developed a taste for journalism and at the age of fifteen years was a contributor to newspapers. He learned shorthand by self-instruction and while yet a boy was able to report speeches. Later he taught school for a short time, but when nineteen years old became editor of a weekly paper at Canton, Ill., and during that time also acted as official court stenographer. For a short time he was engaged in newspaper work in Iowa, being managing editor of a daily paper at Council Bluffs.

In the fall of 1888 Mr. Davis came to Springfield and became connected with the Illinois State Journal. In 1889 he became resident correspondent for the Chicago Times and other metropolitan papers, and from 1890 for many years he was correspondent of Chicago, St. Louis, New York and Boston newspapers. In 1891 he was appointed correspondent of the St. Louis Globe Democrat, and has continuously represented that paper at the State Capital. For a number of years Mr. Davis held the position of manager of the Legislative Bureau of the Associated Press. He has a wide acquaintance with and a comprehensive knowledge of public men. From 1895 until 1899 he practiced law. In 1897 he was appointed Secretary of the State Board of Arbitration and became an authority on industrial conciliation and arbitration. In 1900 he was called before the U. S. Industrial Commission for expert testimony and drafted the acts passed by the Legislature in 1899 and 1901, amending the arbitration law.